Used Audi Q3 review: 2011-2018 (Mk1) - Practicality and boot space

Because the Q3 Mk1 has the external footprint of a family hatchback, it feels decidedly cosy inside for an SUV. That said, as long as they’re not too tall, four adults can travel in comfort. The boot is also more snug than you might imagine for an SUV – it’ll accommodate a bulky pushchair and a week’s worth of supermarket shopping, but if four of you are going away on holiday, you may need to travel lighter than you’d like.

How big is the Audi Q3 Mk1?

If you’re wondering whether it will fit into your garage, the length of the Q3 Mk1 ranges from 4,385mm to 4,411mm, depending on the version. Widths range from 1,831mm to 2,019mm, while the Sport models are 1,585mm tall and the rest are 1,608mm.

How much space is there for passengers?

Passengers under six-feet tall sitting in the back will have adequate room for their head, knees, feet and shoulders. However, taller occupants will be very aware of the close proximity of the front seatbacks to their knees and the looming presence of the headlining above them. 

Despite being quite compact, the cabin still manages to feel reasonably airy. Until you place a third passenger in the back, that is. The person in the middle will appreciate a lift back from the shops when it’s raining, but any further than that and the centre seat is too uncomfortable - shoulder-room is cramped and there’s very little space for your feet because of the hump (transmission tunnel) in the middle of the floor.

Parents will be pleased to learn that there are ISOFIX child seat mounts in the two outer rear seats, as well as the front passenger seat.

In terms of oddments space, the Q3 Mk1 offers large rear door bins, front door bins, a cubby between the front seats, a cupholder on the centre console, and a refrigerated glovebox - handy for keeping your drinks cool and stopping your chocolate from melting. 

How big is the boot?

At 420 litres, the Q3 Mk1’s boot space is large enough for daily life – carrying kids’ clobber, supermarket shopping trips, hauling the dogs around, a family weekend away. Witness how much space one large suitcase occupies inside it, however, and you’ll be reassessing how many clothes you really need to take on your annual holiday to Cornwall. 

Luggage space swells to 1,352 litres when you fold down the rear seats, but annoyingly they don’t fold completely flat and there’s a lip where they meet the boot floor. That makes it frustrating when you’re trying to slide something long and heavy all the way into the luggage area.

Curiously the Q3 Mk1’s rear seat only has a 60:40 split – rivals’ seats split 40:20:40 so that you can carry a long, thin item, such as a pair of skis, in the middle and still have two rear passengers.